Kubica not surprised by Q2 exit

The Pole, who had endured his worst qualifying in F1 in the previous race in China, could only manage the 13th quickest time as BMW continued to be far from the front-running teams.

Kubica said his car is just not competitive enough, but has vowed to push hard to obtain the best possible result.

"We already knew before qualifying it would be difficult today," said Kubica. "We lack overall performance. In qualifying 2 I struggled with the grip of the new option tyres. Additionally, our radio didn't work today so, as a result, it was quite hard to fine-tune tyre pressures and stuff like that.

"On top of that, we also had two small fires during refuelling in the pits. Although this didn't influence the performance, it didn't help. However, we now have to go on working in a concentrated and calm way."

Nick Heidfeld completed a disappointing day for BMW Sauber, the German finishing right behind his team-mate.

Heidfeld conceded the team is in need of new updates.

"This was quite a difficult qualifying for us," the German said. "A lack of pace is obvious and, as we are waiting for our aerodynamic update for Barcelona, it is clear we lose lap time in comparison to competitors who already have new parts. At least we knew this before qualifying.

"Also today the car's balance between the runs was very inconsistent. On my second run in Q2 I was quicker than on my first of that session, but not as quick as in Q1.

"I was really fighting hard and missed the apex in turn nine. It seems unlikely we can collect points tomorrow, but certainly we will not give up and will try everything."